Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP)

GS 3 – Environment – Infrastructure 

The Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP) is a major river interlinking initiative that aims to transfer excess water from the Ken River in Madhya Pradesh (MP) to the Betwa River in Uttar Pradesh (UP). The goal is to irrigate the drought-prone Bundelkhand region, which includes districts in both states:

Components of the project include:

• A 77-meter tall Dhaudhan Dam (to be built within the Panna Tiger Reserve)
• A 230 km canal to transfer water from the Ken to the Betwa.

KBLP is one of the 30 river interlinking projects planned under India’s National River Linking Project.

Ken and Betwa Rivers

Ken River and Betwa River both originate in Madhya Pradesh and are tributaries of the Yamuna River. The Ken meets the Yamuna in Banda district (UP), while the Betwa meets the Yamuna in Hamirpur district (UP). The Betwa River has several dams, including Rajghat, Paricha, and Matatila. The Ken River flows through the Panna Tiger Reserve.

Significance:

• Water Conservation: The project will improve water storage and conservation through the construction of a multipurpose dam.
• Power Generation: It will generate 103 MW of hydropower.
• Drinking Water: The project will supply drinking water to about 62 lakh people in the region.

Concerns Related to the Project:

Environmental Concerns:

• • The project passes through the Panna Tiger Reserve, raising concerns about the impact on wildlife, particularly tigers.
  • Environmental clearances have been delayed due to the need for approval from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and other authorities.

Economic Concerns:

• • The project faces rising costs due to delays in implementation.
  • The high cost of construction and maintenance is a significant concern.

Social Concerns:

• • Displacement and Rehabilitation: The project will require the displacement of local communities, raising concerns about social costs.
  • There are worries about the potential water security threats to Panna due to the diversion of water.

Legal Issues:

• • There are legal challenges to the approval process, particularly regarding the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
  • The Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife‘s approval has been questioned, as it may not align with provisions for improving wildlife management in the Panna Tiger Reserve.

National Perspective Plan (NPP) for River Interlinking:

The National Perspective Plan (NPP), also known as the National River Linking Project (NRLP), aims to address regional water imbalances by transferring water from water-surplus basins to water-deficit basins. The plan includes 30 river link projects:

• Peninsular Component: 16 links
• Himalayan Component: 14 links

The National Water Development Agency (NWDA) is responsible for preparing feasibility reports for these projects. The NPP was first drafted in August 1980.